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3d ago

Cook Islands Weighs Deep-Sea Mining Backed by U.S. and China

The government is aligned with International Seabed Authority guidelines without setting a timeline for commercial operations.

The 1,000-tonne ship MV Anuanua Moana is exploring the far-flung South Pacific for riches buried beneath the waves, spearheading efforts to dredge the tropical waters for industrial deep-sea mining
The Cook Islands' pistine lagoons lure wealthy tourists that prop-up the economy, fridges are stocked with fish plucked from vibrant reefs, and local myths teach children to revere the sea
Moana Minerals CEO Hans Smit says US President Donald Trump's support for deep-sea mining is helpful for the industry
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Overview

  • Moana Minerals has spent two years surveying 20,000 square kilometres of the exclusive economic zone to map polymetallic nodule deposits.
  • President Trump’s executive order and a Cook Islands–China research agreement have strengthened political support for seabed mineral extraction.
  • Government spokesperson Edward Herman says the Cook Islands will adhere to the ISA’s precautionary framework but has not scheduled a start date for mining.
  • Environmentalists and local residents have intensified calls for a moratorium, warning that deep-sea mining could harm marine ecosystems and local livelihoods.
  • The International Seabed Authority has yet to adopt final regulations, creating uncertainty over when commercial deep-sea operations might begin.